Planning a trip to South Korea? Whether you're heading to Seoul for shopping, Busan for beaches, or Jeju for nature, understanding visa requirements is essential. This guide covers everything Malaysians need to know about Korean visas✅
1. Do Malaysians Need to Apply for a Korean Visa?
Good news! Malaysian passport holders generally do NOT need a visa to enter South Korea for short-term visits.
- ✅ Visa-free stay: up to 90 days
- ✅ Purpose: tourism, visiting friends/family, short business trips
- ❗ Requirement: Must apply for K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) before arrival (unless temporarily exempt)
👉 Always check the latest entry requirements before travel, as policies may change.
For most Malaysians, a visa is NOT required for short-term visits.
⚠️ K-ETA Requirement
Before traveling, you may need to apply for:
- K-ETA
- This is an online travel authorization (not a visa)
K-ETA Details:
- Valid for: 2–3 years (or until passport expires)
- Processing time: usually within 24–72 hours
- Cost: approx. KRW 10,000 (~RM35–40)
👉 Note: South Korea sometimes temporarily exempts certain countries (including Malaysia) from K-ETA. Always check current rules before travel.
2. Types of Korean Visa
If you plan to stay longer than 90 days or for specific purposes, you will need a visa.
🔹 Short-Term Visas (C-Type)
- C-3-9 Tourist Visa – leisure travel
- C-3-4 Business Visa – meetings, conferences
- C-3-1 General Visit Visa – visiting relatives
🔹 Long-Term Visas (D & E Types)
- D-2 Student Visa – university programs
- D-4 Language Visa – Korean language courses
- E-2 Work Visa – teaching English
- E-7 Skilled Worker Visa – specialized professions
🔹 Special Visas
- F-series (Residence visas) – long-term residency, marriage, etc.
👉 Choosing the correct visa type is crucial to avoid rejection.
3. What Are the Benefits of a Korean Visa?
Even though Malaysians can enter visa-free, a Korean visa provides additional advantages:
✔️ Longer Stay
- Stay beyond the 90-day visa-free limit
✔️ Multiple Entries
- Enter Korea multiple times without reapplying
✔️ Work & Study Opportunities
- Legal permission for employment or education
✔️ Stability for Long-Term Plans
- Ideal for digital nomads, students, or expats
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Hotel Popular di Korea
5 star
Amazing575 Ulasan
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.3km dari pusat bandar
The family room was great, and they even upgraded our bed to a King-size for free when we checked in. The hotel's service was also excellent. Initially, I had trouble with the phone screen mirroring, but they sent an engineer the next day to help, which was incredibly thoughtful. I was a bit worried when booking because I saw the hotel was older, but it's very well-maintained. The breakfast was delicious too. Overall, I'm very satisfied. The hotel is close to Myeongdong Night Market and the pedestrian street, and Lotte is right next door, making shopping very convenient.DariSGD 353
Amazing301 Ulasan
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.21km dari pusat bandar
The location is super convenient, with direct access to the subway downstairs. The underground passage leads straight to Myeongdong Lotte Department Store. This is my second time staying here, and I really love it! The swimming pool and gym are a highlight; they're large and have professional equipment. I used them twice this trip, and I'll definitely stay here again next time! Oh, and a big thank you to the front desk staff – they allowed me to check in early both times, which was a great experience.DariSGD 331
Great257 Ulasan
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.51km dari pusat bandar
I had an incredible stay at the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul. The service was exceptional, with a special mention to Jenna, I met the first day with 6 hours flight delay who went above and beyond to make my experience unforgettable. The housekeeping team was equally outstanding, ensuring my room was always spotless and adding thoughtful touches that enhanced my stay (Thank you for the yummy chocolate pastries and eye masks). The hotel’s facilities, location, and overall atmosphere were flawless, truly embodying luxury and comfort.
The only minor downside was the mattress, which was a bit softer than I prefer. However, this didn’t detract from the amazing experience. Highly recommend this hotel for anyone visiting Seoul!
Also no worries about restaurants there, many restaurants you can see nearby. The BBQ restaurant opposite the hotel is absolutely amazing! The two ladies there are incredibly friendly and especially attentive to children. The Korean beef and pork are truly delicious, and the kimchi, along with the slightly spicy mushroom soup, is fantastic. It’s even better than the Michelin one-star BBQ beef restaurant I visited the next day in Gangnam.DariSGD 598
Very Good371 Ulasan
Hannam-dong/Itaewon Seoul|3.44km dari pusat bandar
The Grand Hyatt, being an established brand, definitely delivers on quality and service. All the staff speak excellent English, so communication was a breeze, and their service attitude was wonderful. The only drawback is the small room size, which seems to be a common issue in Seoul. Also, there were too many people taking photos in the lobby, making it quite noisy. On the plus side, room service was prompt, and any issues I had were quickly resolved when I called housekeeping. Overall, I would still recommend staying here.DariSGD 313
Very Good379 Ulasan
Hannam-dong/Itaewon Seoul|4.43km dari pusat bandar
a very pleasant stay at this hotel. The location is excellent, making it easy to get around and access nearby attractions, shopping, and food options. The room was clean, well-maintained, and comfortable, with all the basic amenities needed for a good stay.
The staff were friendly and helpful throughout, from check-in to check-out, and were responsive whenever assistance was needed. Housekeeping did a good job keeping the room tidy, and the overall environment felt safe and welcoming.
Facilities were well-kept, and the hotel offered good value for money compared to similar options in the area. Overall, it was a smooth and enjoyable experience, and I would consider staying here again on my next visit.DariSGD 246
Very Good739 Ulasan
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.34km dari pusat bandar
The airport bus 6001 stops about 100 meters to the right of the main entrance; just walk back from there. The front desk is on the 20th floor, and the lady there spoke excellent English. I had booked a random room but requested twin beds in the notes, which wasn't honored. The bathroom layout is a bit impractical, especially the lighting. If you need to use the restroom in the middle of the night, it's either the brightly lit hallway or the exhaust fan blasting away, and that fan is incredibly loud. I couldn't figure out the switches for the other lights either; there was just no night light. Disposable amenities weren't provided, but there were slippers and water. The hairdryer was really old-fashioned.DariSGD 286
Great416 Ulasan
Yeouido Seoul|6.44km dari pusat bandar
The location is fantastic! You can access Hyundai Department Store directly from the basement, and it's a short walk to Han River Park. There's a street with tons of restaurants just a few hundred meters away, including some famous BBQ spots popular with celebrities. The hotel is right above subway lines 5 and 9. Taxis to Seongsu or Myeongdong are under ₩10,000, and a taxi to Incheon Airport during the day is under ₩20,000.DariSGD 400
Amazing1008 Ulasan
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.68km dari pusat bandar
The Shilla Hotel is where South Korea's old money elites gather for events and entertaining. It's quite common to see them in the lobby, dressed in furs and carrying Hermès bags. The service is excellent, and our room faced N Seoul Tower, though the winter view was just so-so. Right next door is the Shilla Duty Free Shop, which isn't very big and doesn't have a huge selection. There's a scheduled shuttle bus that goes to most areas of Myeongdong, and it's also quite convenient to the subway; there's a pick-up service at the subway station entrance for the return trip. The hotel's bakery is quite pricey, and the taste is just average.DariSGD 427
Business travel
Very Good784 Ulasan
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.16km dari pusat bandar
Had a lovely stay at New Seoul Hotel. The staff were extremely helpful, especially when we were finding our way around Seoul (The second picture the staff printed out the ways for us to get to Elysian Ski Park 🥺). The hotel is clean and comfortable, and the doorman and cleaners always greeted us warmly, which made our mornings better. The price is reasonable for the location, and Myeongdong is just around a 20-minute walk. Overall, very happy with this hotel and would recommend it to anyone visiting Seoul.DariSGD 131
Great1122 Ulasan
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.9km dari pusat bandar
Cleanliness: Very good, couldn't see any dust.
Service: Good, quite enthusiastic. The cleaning lady on the 11th floor was very polite.
Environment: The hotel's location is excellent. You can take bus 6001 or 6015 to and from Incheon Airport, both stopping right in front of the hotel (adults 17,000 KRW, children 15,000 KRW). Myeongdong, City Hall, N Seoul Tower, and Lotte Mart can all be reached on foot. There's also Hoehyeon subway station right outside, and Namdaemun Market (snacks, department stores, late-night food) is across the street. There's a coffee shop and a GS25 convenience store downstairs, so you don't even have to leave the hotel for meals.
Facilities: Not very new. The bed was quite soft. Since the windows are sealed, the room felt a bit stuffy and warm (I suggest considering making the windows open slightly to allow for some ventilation).DariSGD 249
Very Good1337 Ulasan
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.61km dari pusat bandar
Such a great location, literally 1min walk to City circle (Green line 2) subway station in between Euljiro and Euljiro so charging to line 3 and line 5 is so convenient. Also walking distance (5min) to Gwangjang market and Chenggyechen. Eben the Airport bus right in front of hotel every 10min. Clean and all staffs were so kind and very considerate(A vanity basket was provided every morning because I declined room cleaning service) I would definitely come back here for next trip.DariSGD 138
Very Good1374 Ulasan
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.05km dari pusat bandar
After a lot of research, I finally chose the Sejong Hotel.
1. **Excellent Location**: It's right outside Myeongdong subway exit 10. It's super close to Myeongdong shopping district, Gyeongbokgung Palace, Lotte Department Store, Shinsegae, and Bukchon Hanok Village, all within about 2 kilometers.
2. **Comfortable and Clean Rooms**: This is an older, established hotel, previously 4-star, now seemingly 3-star. The rooms are very spacious, around 30 square meters (compared to similarly priced hotels). The decor has a millennial vibe with a reddish-brown color scheme. It has a bathtub for showering, a vanity, and a small round table.
3. **Well-Equipped Rooms**: The rooms are very well-equipped, featuring a smart toilet, a mini-fridge (hidden in the cabinet), a safe, and power outlets suitable for all countries! No need to buy an extra adapter (this was a huge plus).
4. **Great Service**: The front desk staff speak Korean, Japanese, Chinese, and English, so communication was completely seamless. Housekeeping kept the room very clean.
5. **Important Notes**: They don't provide disposable toothbrushes, toothpaste, or single-use slippers. The front desk does not require a deposit.DariSGD 87
Very Good2021 Ulasan
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.14km dari pusat bandar
Facilities: I felt very safe. You need a password to reach your room's floor before taking the subway. It's self-check-in, and the staff all speak Chinese and are very nice.
Cleanliness: Pretty good.
Environment: Perhaps because I requested a quiet location in advance, my room was in a good spot.
For food, you can turn left and go up the hill, and they all speak Chinese. Since I was alone, I chose soup and rice.
Turn left out the door, cross the zebra crossing, and go straight to subway exit 6. I think it's the closest exit.
The staff are all very friendly and gentle, and they speak Chinese very well. I might choose to stay here again next time.DariSGD 107
Great1235 Ulasan
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.22km dari pusat bandar
Location of the hotel is superb! It's very convenient if you take k-limuisine bus 6701 from the airport, the bus stop is just in front of the hotel. All sights of the city center are walkable, but subway and bus stops are also 5 min away, so you can discover all areas of this beautiful city. The staff were friendly and hospitable, don't expect checking in earlier than 15.00 through. Amenities of the hotel are quite old, but mostly okay. The breakfast is just perfect! So tasty and various, highly recommend to add them to your booking.
The only thing that disappointed us was the lighting system of the first room. It was turning on and off automatically and randomly during the night, we've experienced a pure torture. Reception sent us an electrician few times, but he couldn't fix it, so we requested changing the room. Thanks to the staff, they found a new room quickly and made a little upgrade, so we finally could have a couple of hours of sleep.
Overall it was a good experience, so I can recommend the hotel Koreans for your trip to Seoul!DariSGD 77
Very Good1901 Ulasan
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.5km dari pusat bandar
The room facilities are great, and it's very close to Myeongdong, Seoul. I've stayed here many times. The big bear in the lobby has been there for years, and the Christmas atmosphere is lovely. The cleanliness is good, and the soundproofing is decent too.DariSGD 155
Very Good1709 Ulasan
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.67km dari pusat bandar
The hotel's location is great, with plenty of restaurants nearby, right on the edge of Myeongdong shopping street. Public transport and subways are very convenient. The front desk had a staff member who spoke Chinese during check-in. I stayed for four nights straight to avoid moving around (the only downside was the slightly small room). It offers excellent value for money, and I'd definitely choose it again if I come to Seoul in the future.DariSGD 112
Breakfast
Very Good906 Ulasan
Insadong / Bukchon Seoul|1.15km dari pusat bandar
We stayed at Hotel Venue G in Seoul for 3 nights and really enjoyed our stay. The location is excellent, it’s close to many attractions, restaurants, and shops, and very convenient for getting around the city.
There’s also the beautiful Cheonggyecheon Stream right in front of the hotel, perfect for a peaceful walk in the morning or evening. The room was clean and comfortable, and the staff were friendly and helpful.
Overall, a great place to stay if you’re looking for good value and a convenient location in Seoul.DariSGD 95
Great2382 Ulasan
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.16km dari pusat bandar
The hotel's location is excellent, just a short walk to Myeongdong. There's a convenience store downstairs, though they often miscalculate the bill. The area is packed with great local Korean restaurants and coffee shops. My only minor complaint is the lack of power outlets, and the adapter felt a bit loose. I'll definitely choose this place again when I visit Myeongdong, and the nearby subway makes getting around super convenient.DariSGD 159
Great684 Ulasan
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.58km dari pusat bandar
This was a rather unpleasant trip. When I checked into my room, I found yellow stains on the bedding. I was too tired that night to bother with it. But the room temperature was consistently cold. At first, I thought it was just me. I had the air conditioning on since I got back to the room, set to 30 degrees Celsius, but the room felt drafty all night. I didn't pay much attention, just hoping it would eventually warm up. However, I woke up freezing at 4 AM. My feet, even under the covers, were icy cold everywhere that wasn't already warm. I got up for a drink, and the water in the glass on the table was also ice cold – yes, truly ice cold. I had no choice but to go down to the front desk to ask for a room change, telling them, 'The lobby is warmer than my room.' The front desk staff moved me to another room and brought an electric heater. But this room was right next to the road. I won't even go into the noise, as it was already 4:30 AM, and I didn't want to go back down to complain again. I put on my headphones, endured it, and managed a few hours of sleep. This room, even without the electric heater, had a decent temperature. However, when I laid out the floor towel in the morning, I again found yellow stains on it. I don't know what's going on with the laundry at this hotel. I stayed for two nights in total, and one entire night was spent dealing with these issues. The next day, I had to go buy a pair of earplugs. I won't be staying here again.DariSGD 282
Great912 Ulasan
Myeong-dong Seoul|0.48km dari pusat bandar
The hotel's location is excellent, right next to Ibis and across from Lotte. After arriving at Incheon, I took the 6015 bus, which took about an hour and a half to reach the Ibis hotel stop. From there, I walked a short distance to see the Apple store, and the hotel is located upstairs. You can enter the building from either side. I went to the 9th floor for check-in.
I booked the most basic room, and it was indeed small. I couldn't fully open my 26-inch suitcase at the foot of the bed, so I organized my belongings in the area near the door and then stored the suitcase away during the day. On each floor, near the elevators, there's a water dispenser with both hot and cold water. During check-out, a Korean gentleman who spoke Chinese provided excellent service. Additionally, the hotel offers luggage storage lockers, which are free for up to 8 hours.DariSGD 182
Great1494 Ulasan
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.2km dari pusat bandar
I am glad to stay at this hotel during my 5-day stay in Seoul. The location is good, walkable to Dongdaemum wholesale market and shopping plazas. If you plan to or want mid-night shopping, this is a good location. Facilities are good, 24-hr complimentary coffee and tea is available at the lobby floor. Staffs are helpful and speaks good English. Room is a bit tiny but still good enough to open up 2 suitcases. Room and facilities are clean. Just the housekeeping lady forgot to give me the bottle water until the last day; however, drinking water machine is available in the corridor as well. Bascially I am very satisfied with my stay. Going to Incheon airport is convenient too, airport bus stop is just outside the hotel, less than 1 min walking. Just allow extra time for the traffic within the city, but at least better than taking airport train with the luggages. I will recommend this to friends, and if I will stay here again for next travel.DariSGD 135
Very Good982 Ulasan
Myeong-dong Seoul|1.02km dari pusat bandar
Amenities: They have a fridge and a kettle, and the air conditioning is nice and quiet.
Cleanliness: My room was cleaned daily, and towels were changed. There were no strange odors, very clean.
Environment: There's a water dispenser in the hallway, which is really convenient.
Service: The staff were warm and attentive.
I'll definitely come back next time. The airport shuttle is right outside the door, which is super convenient. There are also lots of restaurants nearby, and the ginseng chicken soup was delicious! 🤤DariSGD 189
Very Good916 Ulasan
Seoul|7.39km dari pusat bandar
Check-in isn't until 3 PM, no early check-in available. The hotel is a bit old, but the hygiene is decent enough; don't expect anything too fancy. They don't provide disposable toiletries, so you'll need to bring your own. The large mirror and vanity table are very convenient. It's super close to the subway station, just a 3-minute walk, and there are plenty of restaurants downstairs.DariSGD 60
Very Good539 Ulasan
Samseong-dong Seoul|9.79km dari pusat bandar
1. Our flight arrived in the morning, so we got to the hotel around 9 AM. In Korea, check-in is usually at 3 PM, so I was planning to just drop off our luggage and go grab some food. However, after I told the front desk staff, they informed us there was an available room, and they kindly let us check in early! Their attitude was super friendly too.
2. The hotel is really convenient whether you're taking a taxi or the airport bus. COEX and Hyundai Duty-Free are right across the street, making it easy for shopping and even getting your hair done!DariSGD 145
4. Validity and Duration of Stay of a Korean Visa
Visa validity depends on the type issued:
Visa Type | Validity | Duration per Stay |
|---|---|---|
Tourist (Single Entry) | 3 months | Up to 90 days |
Multiple Entry | 1–5 years | 30–90 days per visit |
Student Visa | Course duration | Long-term stay |
Work Visa | Contract duration | Long-term stay |
⚠️ Important:
- Overstaying can result in fines or future travel bans
- Always check your visa stamp upon entry
5. Requirements for Applying for a Korean Visa
Requirements may vary, but generally Malaysians need:
📄 Basic Documents
- Valid Malaysian passport (≥6 months validity)
- Completed visa application form
- Passport-sized photo (white background)
✈️ Travel Documents
- Flight booking (round-trip)
- Hotel reservation or accommodation proof
💰 Financial Proof
- Recent bank statements (3–6 months)
- Proof of sufficient funds
👔 Supporting Documents
- Employment letter (for employees)
- Business registration (for self-employed)
- Student letter (if applicable)
📝 Additional Documents
Depending on visa type:
- Invitation letter (business/family visit)
- School acceptance letter (student visa)
- Employment contract (work visa)
- Pergi Balik
- Sehala
KUL12:2016j 40m1 hentianICN06:00Kuala Lumpur - Seoul|Sab, 11 Apr|Philippine Airlines
ICN22:1529j 50m1 hentianKUL03:05Seoul - Kuala Lumpur|Rab, 15 Apr|Shandong AirlinesSGD 337SGD 49031% off31% offSGD 490SGD 337
KUL08:0523j1 hentianICN08:05Kuala Lumpur - Seoul|Rab, 15 Apr|AirAsiaICN22:1529j 50m1 hentianKUL03:05Seoul - Kuala Lumpur|Rab, 22 Apr|Shandong AirlinesSGD 342SGD 49030% off30% offSGD 490SGD 342
KUL11:3521j 10m1 hentianICN09:45Kuala Lumpur - Seoul|Ahd, 12 Apr|ScootICN22:1529j 50m1 hentianKUL03:05Seoul - Kuala Lumpur|Rab, 15 Apr|Shandong AirlinesSGD 362SGD 49026% off26% offSGD 490SGD 362
KUL1:00 PM3j 5mTanpa hentiSEL2:00 PMKuala Lumpur - Seoul|Wed, Mar 25|Philippine Airlines
SEL1:00 PM3j 5mTanpa hentiKUL2:00 PMSeoul - Kuala Lumpur|Wed, Mar 25|Philippine AirlinesCari Penerbangan LainCari Penerbangan Lain
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6. How to Apply for a Korean Visa
Gambar dari KOREA VISA PORTAL
6. How to Apply for a Korean Visa
Malaysians can apply through the Korean embassy or visa application centers.
Step-by-Step Process:
- Identify your visa type
- Prepare all required documents
- Complete the application form
- Book an appointment (if required)
- Submit your application
- Pay the visa fee
- Wait for processing
- Collect your passport
👉 Applications are usually submitted via:
- Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Malaysia
- Authorized visa centers
7. How Much Does a Korean Visa Cost?
Visa fees are generally:
Visa Type | Fee |
|---|---|
Single-entry visa | USD 40 (~RM180) |
Double-entry visa | USD 70 (~RM320) |
Multiple-entry visa | USD 80 (~RM360) |
Additional Costs:
- Service fees (if using visa center)
- Document printing / translation
- Travel insurance (optional but recommended)
8. How Long Does It Take to Apply for a Korean Visa?
⏱️ Processing Time
- Standard: 5–10 working days
- Peak season: 10–15 working days
Factors That Affect Processing:
- Incomplete documents
- High application volume
- Additional verification required
👉 Tip: Apply at least 2–4 weeks before your trip
Bonus: Travel Tips for Malaysians Visiting Korea
🌸 Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March–May): Cherry blossoms
- Autumn (Sept–Nov): Cool weather & foliage
💡 Useful Tips
- Download Grab alternative apps (Korea uses Kakao T)
- Prepare a T-money card for transport
- Learn basic Korean phrases or use translation apps
For Malaysians, traveling to South Korea is relatively easy thanks to visa-free entry. However, understanding visa options, requirements, and processes is essential—especially for longer stays or special purposes.
By preparing early and choosing the right visa (or K-ETA), you can enjoy a smooth and stress-free journey to Korea✨
Korea Visa for Malaysians – FAQs
1. Do Malaysians need a visa to travel to South Korea?
Malaysian passport holders do not need a visa for short visits to South Korea (up to 90 days) for tourism, business, or visiting family. However, travelers may need to apply for K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) before departure, depending on current regulations.2. What is K-ETA and do Malaysians need it?
K-ETA is an online travel authorization required for visa-free travelers entering South Korea. Malaysians may be required to apply for K-ETA before traveling.
Validity: 2–3 years
Processing time: 24–72 hours
Cost: around KRW 10,000
👉 Always check if Malaysians are temporarily exempt before applying.3. How long can Malaysians stay in South Korea without a visa?
Malaysians can stay in South Korea for up to 90 days per visit without a visa.4. What types of Korean visas are available for Malaysians?
If you plan to stay longer or for specific purposes, you may need a visa such as:
Tourist Visa (C-3-9)
Business Visa (C-3-4)
Student Visa (D-2, D-4)
Work Visa (E-series)
Long-term residence visas (F-series)5. When do Malaysians need to apply for a Korean visa?
You need a visa if:
You plan to stay more than 90 days
You intend to work, study, or live in South Korea
Your travel purpose is not covered under visa-free entry